Turnout is expected to be low today, but that should not stop you from casting a ballot in the runoff for two Republicans fighting for U.S. Congress and two Democrats vying for the U.S. Senate. In fact, it should inspire you to make sure your vote is cast.

Madison and Rankin counties district Attorney Michael Guest and former healthcare executive Whit Hughes made the top two spots June 5 and will be featured on today’s Republican ballot for U.S. Congress. Guest is predicted to win — he almost avoided the runoff and won outright on June 5, doubling up on Hughes 28,720 to 14,250, for almost 45 percent of the vote.

The winner of the Republican runoff will face Democratic challenger Michael Ted Evans. The general election will also feature Reform Party candidate Matthew Holland.

The Democratic runoff for U.S. Senate will feature Howard Sherman, the husband of actress Sela Ward, and Rep. David Baria for the right to challenge incumbent Republican U.S. Sen. Roger Wicker in November.

Lincoln County Circuit Clerk Dustin Bairfield said he is expecting a local turnout of around 2,000 voters — 10 percent.

“That’s kind of traditional. I hate to say it, but usually on a runoff a lot of people lose interest,” he said. “Maybe their candidate they were pulling for didn’t make it to the runoff.”

Maybe your candidate didn’t make the cut, but that doesn’t mean you can’t vote. Polls will be open today from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. We encourage you to defy the predictions and go out and vote.